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Key Points

The Odisha government has shut down internet and social media in Cuttack for a full day. This decision comes after fresh clashes broke out between groups following Durga Puja celebrations. Police and fire services are dealing with multiple incidents of arson and stone-pelting in the city. Authorities are urging residents to avoid rumors and check official sources for updates.

Key Points: Odisha Suspends Internet in Cuttack After Communal Clashes

  • 24-hour internet suspension began Sunday 7 pm across Cuttack Municipal Corporation area
  • Ban includes all social media platforms to curb rumor mongering
  • Clashes erupted between two groups during Durga Puja immersion ceremony
  • Police confirm rioters set fires at 8-10 locations in Gouri Shankar Park
  • DGP assures situation is under control and action against culprits
  • Authorities urge citizens to verify information via official police channels
2 min read

Internet, social media services suspended in Cuttack for 24 hours

Odisha government imposes 24-hour internet & social media ban in Cuttack following violent clashes during Durga Puja immersion. Police urge calm.

"The rioters are pelting stones at us. Police have been deployed to control the situation. - Assistant Fire Officer Sanjeeb Kumar Behera"

Cuttack, October 5

The Odisha Government has implemented a 24-hour suspension of internet services, starting Sunday, as the situation remains tense here.

The ban, which took effect at 7 pm on Sunday, and will remain in place until 7 pm on Monday. Additionally, the use of social media platforms has also been prohibited in the area.

It will remain effective in the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority (CDA), and the 42 Mauza Region.

The situation is tense in Cuttack as fresh clashes between two groups were reported here on Sunday. This comes following the incident of stone pelting and clash between them during Durga Puja immersion late last night. Police are present at the spot.

Assistant Fire Officer, Sanjeeb Kumar Behera said, "We received information that near the Gouri Shankar Park, rioters have set fire at 8-10 places. We have extinguished the fire. The rioters are pelting stones at us. Police have been deployed to control the situation."

Odisha Director-General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania said that the situation is under control here.

"The police are closely monitoring the situation. Action will be taken against all anti-social elements involved in the violence. I would like to inform all residents of Cuttack not to trust any rumour. They should immediately check the police website, the Commissionerate's website, and their Twitter handle," the top cop said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Sad to see violence during Durga Puja celebrations. The administration is right to take preventive measures. Better to have temporary inconvenience than permanent damage to peace.
A
Arjun K
While I support maintaining law and order, internet shutdowns affect essential services too. Hospitals, online education, and emergency services rely on internet connectivity. There should be a more targeted approach.
S
Sarah B
As someone living in Cuttack, this shutdown is necessary. Rumors were spreading like wildfire on WhatsApp groups. People were getting panicked. Sometimes tough measures are needed for public safety.
V
Vikram M
Hope the police take strict action against those who disrupted the peaceful Durga Puja celebrations. Such elements spoil the harmony of our society. 🙏
M
Michael C
The government should have better mechanisms to counter misinformation without completely shutting down internet. In 2023, we need more sophisticated solutions than blanket bans.

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